Physical Fitness Importance
Physical fitness and exercise are one of the simplest and most effective ways to lower blood glucose levels, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and improve overall health and well-being. Yet, in our increasingly sedentary world, where almost any essential task can be accomplished online, from the driver's seat, or via phone call, exercising and maintaining physical fitness can be a difficult sell.
While everyone should exercise, a survey found that only 30% of the adult population in the United States gets the recommended thirty minutes of physical activity daily, and 25% are inactive at all.
Inactivity is thought to be a significant factor in the rise of type 2 diabetes in America, as it promotes insulin resistance and other risk factors for other types of diseases.
The good news is that it is never too late to begin exercising, and exercise is one of the simplest ways to begin preventing the onset of any disease. Exercise and physical fitness can improve the condition of certain parts of the body, such as insulin sensitivity, reduce the risk of heart disease, and promote weight loss in people who are already candidates for some serious diseases, such as diabetes and heart failure.
In 2003, the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism published an article on the findings of their study, which concluded that a lack of exercise and physical fitness were the primary contributors to obesity and other serious diseases such as diabetes.
As a result, it is critical for an individual to maintain good health and physical fitness in order to avoid contracting such illnesses.
How to Begin
Consult your health care provider before beginning any exercise program, especially if you are a "dyed-in-the-wool" couch potato.
If you have cardiac risk factors, your doctor may order a stress test to determine your safe exercise level.
Certain complications associated with certain diseases may also limit the type of exercise program you can participate in. Weightlifting, jogging, or high-impact aerobics may pose a risk to individuals with diabetic retinopathy due to the possibility of further blood vessel damage and possible "retinal detachment."
Additionally, health experts advise patients with severe peripheral neuropathy or PN to avoid foot-intensive weight-bearing exercises such as long-distance walking, jogging, or step aerobics in favor of low-impact activities such as swimming, biking, and rowing.
If you have a medical condition that makes exercise and physical fitness difficult, your provider may refer you to an exercise physiologist who can create a fitness program tailored to your unique needs.
Even if you are already involved in sports or exercise on a regular basis, it is still beneficial to discuss your routine with your doctor.
The bottom line is that physical fitness and exercise do not have to be strenuous activities. Exercise can be as simple as a brisk evening neighborhood walk, walking the dog, or simply taking the stairs rather than the elevator. What is important is that you keep moving. Every little bit helps tremendously.
Finally, you'll realize that the numerous benefits that good food can provide are identical to the benefits that physical fitness can provide.